Download Athletic Training Program Policy and Procedures

Athletic Training Program
Policy and Procedures Manual
WEST LIBERTY UNIVERSITY ATHLETIC TRAINING
POLICY AND PROCEDURES MANUAL
TABLE OF CONTENTS
INTRODUCTION .................................................................................................................. 6
A.
MISSION STATEMENT:.............................................................................................................7
B.
ATHLETIC TRAINING PHILOSOPHY: .........................................................................................7
C.
RATIONAL: ..............................................................................................................................8
PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY ................................................................................. 9
A.
NATA CODE OF ETHICS .........................................................................................................10
STANDARDS OF OPERATION .......................................................................................... 12
A.
CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY ............................................................................................13
B.
LIABILITY STATEMENT ...........................................................................................................13
D.
HOURS OF OPERATION AND CONTACT INFORMATION: ............................................................14
E.
SPORT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES: .......................................................................................16
F.
NON-TRADITIONAL SPORT COVERAGE AND GENERAL STUDENT POPULATION: .....................16
G.
ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM GUIDELINES: ...............................................................................16
H.
PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE:.................................................................................................17
CARE AND PREVENTION OF ATHLETIC INJURIES .................................................... 18
A.
PRE-PARTICIPATION EXAM: ....................................................................................................19
B.
SICKLE CELL: ..........................................................................................................................21
i.
Student Sickle Cell Trait Testing Information Sheet .................................................21
ii.
Student Sickle Cell Trait Testing Waiver Sheet ........................................................21
C.
CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT AND PROTOCOL .........................................................................24
D.
EDUCATION.............................................................................................................................24
E.
SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION ..............................................................................24
F.
BASELINE TESTING .................................................................................................................25
G.
REPORTING A CONCUSSION ....................................................................................................25
H.
ACUTE MANAGEMENT OF A CONCUSSION ..............................................................................25
I.
POST-ACUTE CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT .............................................................................25
i.
Student Athlete Concussion Information Sheet .........................................................26
ii.
Coordination of Care for Concussions .......................................................................26
iii.
Sideline Concussion Assessment Protocol ................................................................26
iv.
Physicians Notification to Instructor about an Athletes Concussion .........................26
J.
EQUIPMENT NOTIFICATION: ....................................................................................................31
K.
EVALUATION PROCEDURE & DOCUMENTATION .....................................................................31
i.
Initial Evaluation/Follow-up Form ............................................................................32
ii.
Rehabilitation Sheet ...................................................................................................32
L.
MEDICAL REFERRAL GUIDELINES: .........................................................................................37
M.
ATHLETIC TRAINING SERVICES: .............................................................................................37
N.
i.
Agent of Record Statement ........................................................................................38
ii.
Visiting Athletic Trainer’s Information Sheet ...........................................................38
THERAPEUTIC EQUIPMENT COMPLIANCE AND SAFETY POLICY: .............................................42
i.
Modality Calibration: .................................................................................................42
ii.
Modality Problems, Repair, and Safety: ....................................................................42
iii.
Cryotherapy: ..............................................................................................................42
iv.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation: ...................................................................................43
v.
Hydrotherapy: ............................................................................................................44
vi.
Intermittent Pneumatic Compression:........................................................................44
vii.
Quad-7 Cold and Hot compression: ...........................................................................45
viii.
Iontophoresis: .............................................................................................................45
ix.
Paraffin:......................................................................................................................46
x.
Moist Hot Packs: ........................................................................................................46
xi.
Ultrasound/Phonophoresis: ........................................................................................47
HEALTH AND SAFETY ...................................................................................................... 49
A.
BLOOD-BORN PATHOGENS: ....................................................................................................50
B.
MEDICATION DISTRIBUTION: ..................................................................................................50
i.
Prescription Drug Distribution:..................................................................................50
ii.
Over the Counter (OTC) Drug Distribution: .............................................................50
C.
IV THERAPY: ..........................................................................................................................50
D.
TROPICAL ANALGESICS/MEDS: ...............................................................................................51
E.
METERED-DOSED INHALERS: ..................................................................................................51
F.
EPIPENS: .................................................................................................................................51
G.
ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID: ........................................................................................................51
H.
DEXAMETHASONE: .................................................................................................................51
I.
SUPPLEMENTS: ........................................................................................................................51
J.
PREGNANCY:...........................................................................................................................51
K.
HEAT ILLNESS: ........................................................................................................................51
L.
LIGHTNING SAFETY POLICY:...................................................................................................52
i.
M.
West Liberty University Lightning Policy.................................................................52
INFECTION CONTROL AND PREVENTION .................................................................................55
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES ............................................................................................ 57
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A.
EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS:..................................................................................................58
OTHER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ........................................................................... 75
A.
PORTABLE RADIO USAGE GUIDELINES: ..................................................................................76
STUDENT HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.
WLU Athletic Training Program Mission Statement ................................................. 81
B.
WLU Athletic Training Program Outcomes .............................................................. 81
C.
Progression in Program............................................................................................... 81
1.
GRADE-POINT REQUIREMENTS ...............................................................................................81
2.
STUDENT PRE-CLINICAL PHYSICALS ......................................................................................81
3.
CLINICAL ROTATIONS .............................................................................................................82
4.
D.
E.
a.
AT 200 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum I – 1 hour ...........................................82
b.
AT 205 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum II– 1 hour...........................................82
c.
AT 300: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum III – 2 hours ......................................82
d.
AT 305: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum IV – 2 hours .....................................83
e.
AT 400: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum V – 2 hours .......................................83
f.
AT 405: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum VI – 2 hours .....................................83
CLINICAL HOURS POLICY .......................................................................................................84
Attendance Policy ....................................................................................................... 84
1.
CLASS ATTENDANCE ..............................................................................................................84
2.
CLINICAL ATTENDANCE..........................................................................................................84
a.
Excused Absences ......................................................................................................84
b.
Unexcused Absences .................................................................................................85
c.
Calling off during your clinical rotation ....................................................................86
d.
Clinical Tardiness ......................................................................................................86
e.
Expected Hours of Work ...........................................................................................86
f.
Make-up Time ............................................................................................................86
g.
Illness during Clinical Attendance .............................................................................87
h.
Injury during Clinical Attendance .............................................................................87
i.
Extended Illness/Injury Policy ...................................................................................87
j.
Inclement Weather Policy ..........................................................................................88
Composite Clinical Performance Evaluation ............................................................. 88
1.
GRADING ................................................................................................................................88
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F.
a.
Student Notebooks .....................................................................................................88
b.
Clinical Academic Assignments ................................................................................89
c.
Final Evaluation Forms ..............................................................................................89
d.
Cheating and Plagiarism ............................................................................................89
Clinical Rotation Rules and Guidelines...................................................................... 91
1.
APPEARANCE/DRESS CODE.....................................................................................................91
2.
SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS .......................................................................................93
3.
IMPAIRED THINKING ...............................................................................................................93
a.
G.
H.
I.
Drug/Alcohol Use ......................................................................................................93
4.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK............................................................................................94
5.
PREGNANCY POLICY ...............................................................................................................94
6.
INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY ..................................................................................................94
7.
HIPAA TRAINING ...................................................................................................................94
8.
UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS ......................................................................................................94
9.
CPR CERTIFICATION ...............................................................................................................96
10.
HEALTH INSURANCE ...............................................................................................................96
Additional Costs ......................................................................................................... 96
1.
MALPRACTICE INSURANCE .....................................................................................................96
2.
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION ...................................................................................................96
3.
STUDENT HOUSING .................................................................................................................96
General Information/Activities ................................................................................... 96
1.
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT .........................................................................................................97
2.
ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION ......................................................................................................97
3.
ATHLETIC SEASON ..................................................................................................................97
4.
STUDENT HEALTH REPORTING POLICY ...................................................................................97
5.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP ...........................................................................97
Disciplinary Procedures .............................................................................................. 98
1.
FIRST OFFENSE: ......................................................................................................................98
2.
SECOND OFFENSE: ..................................................................................................................98
3.
THIRD OFFENSE: .....................................................................................................................98
a.
Permanent Dismissal from a Clinical Site .................................................................98
J.
NATA Code of Ethics ................................................................................................ 100
K.
STUDENT POLICIES AGREEMENT ...................................................................... 102
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INTRODUCTION
A. MISSION STATEMENT:
Athletic Training is a health care profession that specializes in preventing, recognizing, managing, and
rehabilitation injuries. In cooperation which physicians, other allied health personnel, administration, coaches,
parent, and the student-athlete, the Athletic Trainer functions as an integral member of the health care team at
West Liberty University. The health and safety principle of the National Collegiate Athletic Association's
constitution provides that it is the responsibility of each member institution (WLU) to protect the health of, and
provide a safe environment for, each of its participating student-athletes.
Therefore, the mission of West Liberty Athletic Training should be to ensure the health and welfare of each
student-athlete participating in varsity athletics at WLU. Additionally, West Liberty University Athletic
Training should seek to educate the student-athletes, athletic training students, coaches, administrators, and
public about the profession of Athletic Training, appropriate care for conditions and injuries, and rehabilitation
needed for specific injuries. Athletic Trainers at West Liberty University should be highly motivated
individuals. They should constantly seek out all available knowledge relating to the profession. They should
maintain a professional health care environment for the student-athlete. West Liberty University Athletic
Trainers must adhere to the National Athletic Trainers' Association Code of Ethics and the Rules and
Regulations set forth by the West Virginia Board of Physical Therapy for Registered Athletic Trainers in the
state.
B. ATHLETIC TRAINING PHILOSOPHY:
The West Liberty University Athletic Training Staff must work as a team. The team is directed by the Team
Physician. As allied healthcare professionals, athletic trainers are providers of sports injury care and are
educators of health, fitness, nutrition, and medicine. The athletic trainer(s) at West Liberty University must
maintain integrity, confidentiality, enthusiasm, and charismatic dedication through their medical training and
value system. These qualities are not only learned but are embedded within the soul of the healthcare provider.
It is the belief of this institution that athletic training services are an integral part of athletic health and
medicine. It is also believed that athletic trainers play a major role in the development of the individuals they
serve. First, by preventing hardship or injury by taking precautions, such as scanning the field before play or
checking the heat index for dangerous environmental conditions. Second, by recognizing and treating injures
quickly and efficiently. This should not only be addressed by assessing the injury, but also by treating the
athletics' mental, emotional and spiritual needs. Third, by providing rehabilitation to the athlete in a consistent
and functionally progressive manner. Teaching the athletes home exercises will give them a sense of ownership
and accomplishment. Fourth, by administering the sports medicine program to accomplish organization,
formulation of action plans and standard operating procedures. This will develop consistency and
accountability. Lastly, athletic trainers must continue professional development, responsibility, and strong work
ethic. All athletic trainers need to be lifelong learners and educators. This will better prepare them for caring for
the unique conditions, while giving our athletes and patients basic knowledge of their pathology that will spark
their curiosity.
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C. RATIONAL:
The following are rationale for implementing a Policy & Procedures for WLU Athletic Training:

To provide the intercollegiate community with pertinent information regarding the operating policy and
procedures of the West Liberty University Athletic Training Program.

To ensure there is a system checklist in place for workers and supervisors to provide consistent and
accurate performances that do not harm involved individuals.

To ensure procedures are followed based upon national, state, departmental, and governmental
regulations regarding athletic training services and emergency procedures.

To serve as a day-to-day procedural steps that should be utilized by West Liberty Athletic Trainers,
Team Physicians, and Athletic Training Students under the supervision of a Preceptor.
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PROFESSIONAL RESPONSIBILITY
9
A. NATA CODE OF ETHICS
PREAMBLE
September 28, 2005
The National Athletic Trainers’ Association Code of Ethics states the principles of ethical behavior that should
be followed in the practice of athletic training. It is intended to establish and maintain high standards and
professionalism for the athletic training profession.
The principles do not cover every situation encountered by the practicing athletic trainer, but are representative
of the spirit with which athletic trainers should make decisions. The principles are written generally; the
circumstances of a situation will determine the interpretation and application of a given principle and of the
Code as a whole. When a conflict exists between the Code and the law, the law prevails.
PRINCIPLE 1:
Members shall respect the rights, welfare and dignity of all.
1.1 Members shall not discriminate against any legally protected class.
1.2 Members shall be committed to providing competent care.
1.3 Members shall preserve the confidentiality of privileged information and shall not release such information
to a third party not involved in the patient’s care without a release unless required by law.
PRINCIPLE 2:
Members shall comply with the laws and regulations governing the practice of athletic training.
2.1 Members shall comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws and institutional guidelines.
2.2 Members shall be familiar with and abide by all National Athletic Trainers’ Association standards, rules and
regulations.
2.3 Members shall report illegal or unethical practices related to athletic training to the appropriate person or
authority.
2.4 Members shall avoid substance abuse and, when necessary, seek rehabilitation for chemical dependency.
PRINCIPLE 3:
Members shall maintain and promote high standards in their provision of services.
3.1 Members shall not misrepresent, either directly or indirectly, their skills, training, professional credentials,
identity or services.
3.2 Members shall provide only those services for which they are qualified through education or experience and
which are allowed by their practice acts and other pertinent regulation.
3.3 Members shall provide services, make referrals, and seek compensation only for those services that are
necessary.
3.4 Members shall recognize the need for continuing education and participate in educational activities that
enhance their skills and knowledge.
3.5 Members shall educate those whom they supervise in the practice of athletic training about the Code of
Ethics and stress the importance of adherence.
3.6 Members who are researchers or educators should maintain and promote ethical conduct in research and
educational activities.
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PRINCIPLE 4:
Members shall not engage in conduct that could be construed as a conflict of interest or that reflects negatively
on the profession.
4.1 Members should conduct themselves personally and professionally in a manner that does not compromise
their professional responsibilities or the practice of athletic training.
4.2 National Athletic Trainers’ Association current or past volunteer leaders shall not use the NATA logo in the
endorsement of products or services or exploit their affiliation with the NATA in a manner that reflects badly
upon the profession.
4.3 Members shall not place financial gain above the patient‘s welfare and shall not participate in any
arrangement that exploits the patient.
4.4 Members shall not, through direct or indirect means, use information obtained in the course of the practice
of athletic training to try to influence the score or outcome of an athletic event, or attempt to induce financial
gain through gambling.
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STANDARDS OF OPERATION
12
A. CONFIDENTIALITY AND PRIVACY:
At West Liberty University, protecting the confidentiality of injured and ill athletes and their medical records is
of utmost concern and an important component in the success of our services. We take appreciable measures to
ensure that the privacy rights of our athletes are protected and that all the state and federal laws protecting those
rights are adhered to by the athletic training staff. Please refer to the University's documentation as it pertains to
HIPAA and FERPA.
B. LIABILITY STATEMENT:
The Athletic Training Staff, including Athletic Training Students, have immediate cell phone access in the
event emergency services need to be contacted. During home contests Athletic Trainers also have access to
portable radios so they can be in direct contact with Campus Police and local EMS. Football games will always
have access to the portable radio and other home contests will depend on accessibility of radio.
The Certified Athletic Trainers on staff recertify in basic life support and first aid bi-annually. They also
complete at minimum 75 hours of continuing education during every three-year reporting period.
A team physician is on site for all home football games. A nurse is available at Health Services Monday through
Friday during normal business hours. Five full-time Athletic Trainers are available during the business day and
are assigned sport coverage based on injury rates and the possibility of significant injury. An athletic trainer
travels with football and basketball for all contests and is assigned to football during all contact practices during
their traditional and spring season. Athletic trainers are assigned to basketball practices as well.
The Athletic Training staff ensures that each team traveling without an athletic trainer has a stocked medical kit.
The medical kit contains first aid supplies and emergency contact information of the athletes.
The Athletic Training Staff maintains AED supplies and equipment in the event of an emergency.
The Athletic Training Staff monitors inclement weather and makes decisions that provide for the health and
safety of all athletes.
All athletes are required to maintain their own medical insurance that will cover athletic related injuries. Those
with inadequate insurance will not be permitted to participate in any team activity (games, practices, off season
conditioning, etc.) West Liberty University is not responsible for any cost incurred by the athlete while
participating in intercollegiate athletes.
An associate from the Riddell Company fits the football team with protective equipment annually.
During practice and competition, athletes have direct access to an unlimited supply of water. When
temperatures and relative humidity are high enough to potentially case heat related illness the athletic training
staff provides Gatorade for electrolyte replacement and iced towels to cool the temperature of overheated
athletes.
The Athletic Training Staff displays NCAA posters and American Heart Association posters used for
educational purposes. Information on the posters may be used to: 1) Reduce risk of infection, 2) Reduce risk of
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environmental exposure, and 3) Treat victims of life threatening events
D. HOURS OF OPERATION AND CONTACT INFORMATION:
The Main Athletic Training Room is open Monday through Friday, 9:30 am-3:00 pm. An athletic trainer will
be around between the hours specified during the week. The operating hours are posted on the door of the
Athletic Training Room and may be subject to change due to inclement weather, sport season, sport travel,
academic teaching, etc.
14
Athletic Training Program Director:
Dr. David R. Hanna PT, DPT, PT, ATC
(O) 304-336-8547
Head Athletic Trainer
Herb Minch MS, ATC
(O) 304-336-8476
Athletic Trainer
Jason Coleman MS, ATC
(O) 304-336-8093
Faculty/Athletic Trainer
Jerry Duncan MS, ATC, CES
(O) 304-336-8651
Faculty/Athletic Trainer
Hannah Harnar MS, ATC
(O) 304-336-8650
Athletic Trainer
Amber Helphenstine, ATC
(O) 304-336-5468
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E. SPORT SPECIFIC RESPONSIBILITIES:
Sport
Direct Supervision
Indirect Supervision
Football
Jerry Duncan
Jerry Duncan
Volleyball
Amber Helphenstine
Amber Helphenstine
Men’s Cross Country
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Women’s Cross Country
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Men’s Golf
Amber Helphenstine
Women’s Golf
Amber Helphenstine
Travel
Men’s Tennis
Amber Helphenstine
Women’s Tennis
Amber Helphenstine
Men’s Basketball
Jason Coleman
Jason Coleman
Women’s Basketball
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Wrestling
Amber Helphenstine
Amber Helphenstine
Baseball
Jason Coleman
Jason Coleman
Softball
Amber Helphenstine
Amber Helphenstine
Men’s Track and Field
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Women’s Track and Field
Jerry Duncan
Hannah Harnar
Women’s Soccer
Jason Coleman
Jason Coleman
F. NON-TRADITIONAL SPORT COVERAGE AND GENERAL STUDENT POPULATION:
West Liberty Athletic Trainers will provide no coverage to sports not classified as Varsity Athletics. Certified
Athletic Trainers may act as first responders should an injury occur. Care should be limited to basic first aid.
Injuries that occur in this situation should be referred to Student Health. If an emergency situation occurs, a
responsible party should activate EMS by calling 911 or Campus Police at 304-336-8021.
G. ATHLETIC TRAINING ROOM GUIDELINES:

Athletes must report for treatments in a reasonable amount of time. No rushed treatments will be
provided. Athletes that have class schedules that conflict with treatment times should inform a member
of the staff so that appropriate accommodations can be made.

Athletes must report for treatments in proper attire. Proper attire for athletes should be athletic shorts,
shirts (tank tops, t-shirts, etc), athletic shoes and socks.

Athletes are required to shower prior to receiving treatments.

Athletes and Athletic Training Students are prohibited from performing modalities other than
cryotherapy/thermotherapy without the direct supervision of a Certified Athletic Trainer.
16

It is the athlete’s responsibility to report any injury/condition to a member of the staff.

Any athlete that wishes to see a physician should notify a staff member for proper referral.

Athletes must sign in when they receive treatment.

The Athletic Training Clinic is a professional medical service facility. Loud, rude, or unprofessional
behavior (including but not limited to language, gestures, music, etc) will not be tolerated.
Disrespect of the Athletic Training Staff, in any form, will not be tolerated. Offending athletes will be
dismissed from the Athletic Training Clinic immediately and their coach will be notified.


The Athletic Training Clinic is not a lounge or locker room. Any athletes lounging about will be asked
to leave. The Athletic Training Staff is not responsible for personal items that have been left in the
clinic and have been lost or stolen. You have a locker, use it!

Athletes and coaches are not permitted to remove coolers, ice chests, or water bottles from the Athletic
Training Clinic without prior approval from a member of the staff.

Athletic Trainers and team physicians will determine the proper care and treatment for all athletic
related injuries and illnesses.
H. PROFESSIONAL APPEARANCE:
As an Athletic Trainer, you represent both West Liberty University and the profession of Athletic Training.
You are expected to dress and conduct yourself in a professional and responsible manner. Your clothing is to
be appropriate and in accordance with professional standards. You must wear appropriate clothing at all times.
1. Wear WLU clothing purchased and provided to you unless otherwise designated by the Head Athletic
Trainer. Additional attire must conform to the institution’s color schemes
2. No shirts, dresses, or low-cut fitting shirts.
3. Shoes worn should be safe and comfortable. Sandals, flip-flops, clogs, slippers, open-toed shoes, or
heels are not permitted. Stocks or socks must be worn at all times. Open-toes shoes worn as a part of a
formal outfit are permitted if appropriate.
4. Appropriate undergarments must be worn at all times and not visible.
5. If shorts are allowed, they must be (golf short-type by design) and appropriately long enough.
6. No holes in any clothing.
7. Shirts tucked in and belts are highly recommended.
8. Hair must be neat and clean. If shoulder length or longer, hair must be pulled or back with a hair clasp.
Hair must not come in contact with patients. Beards, moustaches and sideburns must be neat and
trimmed.
9. Jewelry should not be excessive. Earrings, rings and necklaces should be kept to a minimum. Only
small earrings may be worn.
10. Cosmetics must convey a professional appearance. Make-up should not be excessive. The length of
fingernails must promote patient and employee safety. Nail polish must be appropriate and in good
repair.
11. No hats to be worn during inside event coverage.
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CARE AND PREVENTION OF ATHLETIC INJURIES
18
A. PRE-PARTICIPATION EXAM:
The West Liberty University Health Services Staff, organize, schedule and perform athletic physicals for 16
varsity intercollegiate sports programs. At the beginning of the academic year, before the start of official
practice, health services will schedule individual teams a specific day and time range to perform physicals. The
physicals include assessment of height, weight, resting heart rate, temperature, blood pressure, heart/lung
sounds, past history information, orthopedic screening, and ImPact baseline testing. The ImPact test is a tool
that measures a brain’s function in a variety of different ways. In the event of the concussion, a post traumatic
ImPact test can be compared with a baseline test to scientifically ascertain severity of cerebral injury. (Head
injuries are also evaluated by the Athletic Training Staff) All information between health services and athletic
training is shared. However, the athletic training staff requires different forms to be completed prior to the start
of each year.
19
20
B. SICKLE CELL:
Sickle cell test results are required to be on file in Division I, II and III institutions. If the student-athletes have
been tested and/or have the results, a copy needs to be on file. In the occurrence of an athlete not being tested
for sickle cell, they need to be screened through a simple blood test. If the student-athlete does not want to be
screened for the sickle cell trait a sign waiver needs to be completed and on file.
i.
ii.
Student Sickle Cell Trait Testing Information Sheet
Student Sickle Cell Trait Testing Waiver Sheet
21
22
23
C. CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT AND PROTOCOL
A concussion is frequently defined as a head injury with a temporary loss or alteration to brain functions. The
changes can exhibit a variety of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms, which may not be recognized if
subtle. The terms mild brain injury, mild traumatic brain injury (MTBI), mild head injury (MHI), minor head
trauma, and concussion may be used interchangeably. A concussion is commonly thought to be caused by
impact forces, in which the head strikes or is struck by something, or secondary forces, in which the head moves
without itself being subject to blunt trauma (for example, a hard blow to the body which jars the brain inside the
skull). A concussion can range from mild to very severe symptoms depending on the individual and the amount
of damage caused.
Concussions are recognized as being a potentially very serious condition that if managed improperly, can lead
to catastrophic consequences. The following policy has been adopted by West Liberty University Athletic
Training in an effort to provide a consistent management approach to any student athlete that suffers a
concussion, while also recognizing that each concussion, as well as each athlete, is unique and individualized in
nature. At West Liberty University, we take great pride in providing optimal health care to all student-athletes.
By managing concussions individually, and considering the athlete's medical history, it allows the physicians
and athletic trainers on staff to ensure the safety for each student athlete.
A concussion is, like many other injuries, not exclusive to sports participation. Any concussion, sports related
or not, will be subject to the requirements for return to play outlined in the rest of this policy. This policy
includes, but is not limited to the management principles mandated by the NCAA and NATA.
D. EDUCATION
Student-athletes and coaches will be educated about how to recognize the signs and symptoms of concussions.
At West Liberty University, this will be done with every athlete and coach annually at the beginning of the fall
semester, or at which point they transfer to WLU and begin to participate in or coach athletics. Two double
sided informational sheets will provide education defining concussion, listing symptoms, and explain the
recovery process. One of the sheets they will keep for their own reference, the other one they will sign and
return to the athletic training staff acknowledging that they have received education on and understand the
concussion information that they are presented with. Every athlete and coach has the right to review the policy
with a member of the athletic training staff upon request.
E. SIGNS AND SYMPTOMS OF A CONCUSSION
Signs and symptoms of a concussion may include, but are not limited to the following:

Amnesia

Sensitivity to light or noise

Confusion

Nausea (feeling that you might vomit)

Headache

Feeling sluggish, foggy or groggy
24

Loss of consciousness

Feeling unusually irritable

Balance problems or dizziness

Difficulty getting to sleep or disrupted sleep

Double or fuzzy vision

Slowed reaction time

Concentration or memory problems (forgetting game plays, facts, meeting times)
Exercise or activities that require a lot of concentration may cause symptoms to re-appear or worsen, thus
increasing the time one needs to recover from a concussion.
F. BASELINE TESTING
Each athlete at West Liberty University, as part of a comprehensive pre-participation physical exam, will be
tested with a computerized neuro-cognitive exam (ImPACT). This test provides a baseline of the neurocognitive functioning of each athlete’s brain at a time where a concussion is not present. This baseline can then
be used to identify any cognitive deficiencies after an athlete sustains a concussion.
G. REPORTING A CONCUSSION
Anyone that suspects a student athlete has a concussion, or notices any athlete suffering from any symptoms of
a concussion, must report the concerns to the appropriate member of the West Liberty University Athletic
Training Staff.
H. ACUTE MANAGEMENT OF A CONCUSSION
Any student-athlete that exhibits signs, symptoms, or behaviors consistent with a concussion shall be removed
from athletic activity by a member of the athletic training staff, a member of the coaching staff, or by the
student-athlete him/herself and shall not return to participation for the remainder of that day. Upon removal, the
student-athlete will be evaluated by a member of the athletic training staff using a combination of a symptoms
checklist, balance assessment, and neurocognitive testing. Following evaluation, the athletic training staff will
determine if further diagnostic testing and transfer to a hospital is warranted by monitoring for deterioration of
mental and physical state. When no referral to hospital is made, instructions will be provided to the studentathlete for monitoring by a roommate, teammate, or guardian.
I. POST-ACUTE CONCUSSION MANAGEMENT
Follow-up Physician care will be determined on an individual basis as directed by the West Liberty Athletic
Training Staff. ImPACT testing will be performed as determined by the Athletic Training Staff based on the
individual, and their symptoms.
Testing will be performed on a schedule as determined by their athletic training staff based on the level of
cognitive impairment and symptoms. A "symptom score" shall be taken each day up to, and including the day
the student-athlete is completely asymptomatic. Once a student-athlete has been asymptomatic for at least 24
hours and the neuro-cognitive test scores have returned to the baseline scores, a gradual return-to-play
protocol shall be implemented, unless directed otherwise by a Physician.
25
1. Complete Rest. Remove athlete from classes and study to allow symptoms to go away. Reevaluate using ImPACT. Progress under direction of a physician when asymptomatic and test scores
have returned to baseline level.
2. Light Cardiovascular Exercise without the return of symptoms (50-60% of Maximum Heart Rate)
10 Minutes
3. Moderate Cardiovascular Exercise without the return of symptoms (60-70% of Maximum Heart
Rate) 10 Minutes
4. High intensity Cardiovascular Exercise without symptom return (70-85% of Max Heart Rate) 15
Minutes
5. Non-Contact Practice Participation without the return of symptoms
6. Full-Contact Practice Participation without the return of symptoms
7. Return to Full-Participation
i.
ii.
iii.
iv.
Student Athlete Concussion Information Sheet
Coordination of Care for Concussions
Sideline Concussion Assessment Protocol
Physicians Notification to Instructor about an Athletes Concussion
26
27
28
29
30
J. EQUIPMENT NOTIFICATION:
Rules that govern mandatory equipment use vary by sport. The West Liberty University Athletic Training Staff
and other athletics personnel are familiar with what equipment is mandatory and what is illegal.
Rules Governing Special Protective Equipment
Baseball -None
Basketball -Rigid substances worn on the elbow, hand, finger, wrist or forearm are prohibited. Flexible
material covered with 1/2 inch thick foam may be used to protect or immobilize injury on the aforementioned
areas. Equipment that could cause injury to another player is prohibited whether rigid or not. Equipment that the
referee believes is dangerous may not be worn.
Football -Artificial limp prostheses are prohibited. Hard and abrasive materials worn on the hand, wrist,
forearm or elbow must be completely covered by 1/2 inch thick foam. Knee braces must be worn under the
pants and entirely covered from direct external exposure. Projection of metal or other hard substance from
uniform or person is also prohibited.
Soccer -A player may not wear anything that is dangerous to another player. Metal on knee braces may not be
exposed. Casts are permitted as long as they are covered and not considered dangerous. No jewelry is
permitted unless it is a medical alert bracelet or necklace, which needs to be taped on the body.
Softball-Casts, braces, splints, etc. must be completed padded and be neutral in color. If worn by a pitcher it
must not be distracting, cause safety risk or give an unfair advantage.
Swimming and Diving -None
Track and Field -No taping of any part of the fingers, thumb or hand in throwing events is allowed unless it is
to cover an open wound. The only exception is during the hammer throw. These tape jobs must be shown to the
head judge prior to competition. Forearm covers in the pole vault are permissible to prevent injuries.
Volleyball -It is forbidden to wear any object that may cause an injury or give artificial advantage to a
player. Hard splints on the hands or arms are prohibited unless padded on all sides by at least 1/2 inch
thick slow rebounding foam. All jewelry must be removed. Taping earrings is not permitted.
K. EVALUATION PROCEDURE & DOCUMENTATION
Once an athlete has sustained an injury a thorough assessment must be performed. The athletic training staff
will generally evaluate injuries in accordance with the national orthopedic guidelines. The order in which the
athlete may be assessed is shown below.
•
•
•
•
•
•
Determine the cause of injury
Determine the event of insult
Identify the chief complaint
Identify other symptoms
Discuss pertinent past history
Observe signs
31
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
•
Observe athlete's movements
Identify allergies, medications, diseases
Palpate structures
Assess range of motion (AROM/PROM/RROM)
Manually assess muscle strength
Perform special tests
Perform neurological tests
Assess reflexes and balance
Refer to sub-specialist if appropriate
As of August 2008, the West Liberty University Athletic Training Staff will document injuries using the
Athletic Training System (ATS) Software by Keffer Development, LLC. This software package includes
databases for athlete information, injury evaluations and progress note updates, treatment regimens, and
medication information, as well as, physician orders, referrals, surgery, physicals, patient history, inventory, and
equipment databases. The injured athlete's information will be processed based on the following cases:
significant injury, referral to another medical professional, and if lost playing time is a factor. Release of
medical information may be required during these situations. Paper documentation will be used as a back-up
system.
i.
ii.
Initial Evaluation/Follow-up Form
Rehabilitation Sheet
32
33
34
35
36
L. MEDICAL REFERRAL GUIDELINES:
The athletic training staff must refer athletes with a significant injury to a specialist and illnesses to the health
center. Health Services must refer to the appropriate sub-specialist when required for definitive diagnoses. The
goal of referral is to ensure that the athlete receives the most effective care possible. The athletic training staff
may refer directly to Doctor’s Urgent Care.
Dr. Derrick Eddy, is the West Liberty University Team Physician and is located at Wheeling Hospital. All
injures will be referred to him unless an athlete wants to see their primary care physician. If an athlete chooses
to see another physician the final return to play clearance must be given by Dr. Derek Eddy, or his appointee, in
order for the athlete to resume participating in his/her sport.
M. ATHLETIC TRAINING SERVICES:
West Liberty University Athletic Training provides the following services to athletes.
Basic First Aid:
PRICE (protection, rest, ice, compression,
elevation)
Bandaging
Splinting
Taping/Bracing
Wound Care
Assessment of Vital Signs
Modality Services:
Therapeutic Ultrasound
Electrical Muscle Stimulation
Phonophoresis
Paraffin Therapy
Iontophoresis
Laser Therapy
Manual Services:
Joint Mobilizations
Trigger Point Therapy
Muscle Release
Soft tissue massage
Cross friction massage
Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation
Cervical and Lumbar Traction
Hydrotherapy:
Thermotherapy:
Topical Analgesics
Moist hot packs
Paraffin therapy
Therapeutic Exercise:
Conditioning
Core Stability
Strengthening
Stretching
Range of Motion
Emergency Services:
Epi-pens
Bronchodilators
Splinting/spine boarding
Cranial Nerve Assessment
CPR/AED
Supportive Services:
ImPact Testing
Nutritional advice
Counseling
Body weight assessment
Body fat assessment
37
Cold Whirlpool
Warm Whirlpool
Hot Whirlpool
Immersion bath
Cryotherapy:
Ice (bags, packs)
Ice Massage
Iced towels
Immersion bucket
Cryokinetics
i.
ii.
Referral Services:
Student Health Services
Wheeling Hospital ER
Ohio Valley Medical Center ER
Doctor’s Urgent Care
Dr. Derrick Eddy-Wheeling
WVU Sports Medicine Center
Agent of Record Statement
Visiting Athletic Trainer’s Information Sheet
38
DEPARTMENT OF
ATHLETICS
208 UNIVERSITY DR.
COLLEGE UNION BOX 103
WEST LIBERTY, WV 26074
OFFICE: 304-336-8093
FAX: 304-336-5239
AGENT OF RECORD STATEMENT
To Whom It May Concern:
I, Dr. Derrick Eddy State License #__________________________________, do hereby grant the
following action to the athletic training staff members listed below:
David Hanna, PT, DPT, MS, ATC
Herb Minch, MS, ATC
Amber Helphenstine, ATC
Jason Coleman, MS, ATC
Jerry Duncan, MS, ATC, CES
Hannah Harnar, MS, ATC
I permit the above listed members of West Liberty University Athletic Training, to act as my agents, as if
they were employees under my supervision and guidance to assist me with the medical care and treatment
of WLU student-athletes.
The Athletic Trainer/Agent is limited to my specific needs and may include other services:
Athletic Trainers/Agents are to use better judgment and knowledge when performing relocation of
most joints excluding the hip and spinal vertebrae and to report all relocations without referral to
me.
-
Athletic Trainers/Agents are to use better judgment and knowledge when performing Concussion
Management and refer properly for follow-up as per University concussion management
guidelines.
-
Athletic Trainers/Agents are to use better judgment and knowledge when performing the
scheduling of MRI via request of physician.
Athletic Trainers/Agents are to use better judgment and knowledge when performing the removal
of sutures.
-
Athletic Trainers/Agents are to use better judgment and knowledge when performing treatment and
rehabilitation on minor muscle strains, sprains, or other injuries not typically needing referral for
physician care.
Dr. Derrick Eddy, MD
Team Physician
Date
39
DEPARTMENT OF ATHLETICS
208 UNIVERSITY DR.
COLLEGE UNION BOX 103
WEST LIBERTY, WV 26074
OFFICE: 304-336-8093
FAX: 304-336-5239
DATE:
TO:
FROM:
RE:
August 26, 2015
Visiting Athletic Trainers
West Liberty Athletic Training Staff
Athletic Training Services
On behalf of West Liberty University, we would like to welcome you to our campus during the 2015-2016
athletic year. If your team(s) will not be traveling with a Certified Athletic Trainer, we ask that you please
send a stocked kit and a letter detailing what treatment they are to receive. We also ask that you notify us
either by phone or email 24 hours in advance to discuss treatment for your athletes.
During your visit, the following services will be provided to you:
1.
Access to our Athletic Training Facilities on the 2nd level of the Academic, Sports, and Recreation
Complex (ASRC) located adjacent to West Stadium or in the Soccer Athletic Training Facility
located adjacent to the soccer field.
2.
Ice, Water, Cups.
3.
Use of therapeutic modalities by a Certified Athletic Trainer or with permission of an Athletic
Trainer.
4.
Access to Emergency Medical Services
5.
Access to emergency supplies (spine board, splints, AED, etc.)
6.
Access to Team Physician for evaluations (football only)
IMPORTANT PHONE NUMBERS:
Herb Minch, MS, ATC
Head Athletic Trainer
[email protected]
office: 304-336-8476
cell: 304-639-0183
Jerry Duncan, MS, ATC, CES
Faculty/Athletic Trainer
[email protected]
office: 304-336-8651
cell: 304-231-8281
Amber Helphenstine, ATC
Athletic Trainer
[email protected]
office: 304-336-5468
cell: 304-639-5342
Jason Coleman, MS, ATC
Athletic Trainer
[email protected]
office: 304-336-8093
cell: 304-312-8463
Local Hospitals:
Wheeling Hospital
1 Medical Park
Wheeling WV, 26003
Ohio Valley Medical Center (OVMC)
2000 Eoff Street
Wheeling WV, 26003
Please feel free to contact us with any questions or concerns for your visit to West Liberty
40
University.
41
N. THERAPEUTIC EQUIPMENT COMPLIANCE AND SAFETY POLICY:
The West Liberty University Athletic Training Program has a variety of treatment modalities for injured
athletes and for the educational benefit of athletic training students under the supervision of certified athletic
trainer or preceptors. Items such as modality calibration, safety and repair are discussed below. Also included
are detailed lists of treatment protocols for individual modalities including indications and contraindications for
use. (Protocols are referenced from current research and practices outlined in: Michlovitz SL, Bellew JW,
Nolan TP Jr. Modalities for Therapeutic Intervention. 5th Edition. Philadelphia, PA. F.A.Davis Company;
2012.) All students are required to follow these guidelines at West Liberty University clinical sites and any
other off campus clinical site without a policy of its own.
i.
Modality Calibration:
West Liberty University electrical modalities are calibrated annually by a certified calibration technician.
ii.
Modality Problems, Repair, and Safety:
Any problems identified by athletic training students or staff with any electrical modality are reported to the
Head Athletic Trainer immediately. Any modality with a suspected dysfunction is removed from use until the
problem is corrected. If the electrical modality requires further repair the Head Athletic Trainer will contact a
qualified technician to arrange repair. Ground Fault Circuit Interrupters breakers are connected to all outlets in
the Athletic Training room to ensure the safety of all modalities from electric shock. Every Athletic training
student must receive didactic education on each modality before they are allowed to clinically apply them under
supervision. Athletic Training Students are not permitted to use any modality without supervision.
iii.
Cryotherapy:
Cryotherapy is a medical term used to describe the use of cold modalities for the purpose of treating athletes
with a variety of conditions. Treatment time varies based upon the modality employed. Ice cup, commonly
referred to as ice massage has treatment time of 5-1 0 minutes. The frozen ice is applied directly to the skin with
firm pressure. The technique may either be a circular or longitudinal. Each motion must overlap the previous by
half (often called half over half). A cold whirlpool may be applied for 10-20 minutes at temperatures ranging
from 32-80 degrees Fahrenheit. The foot is immersed in water and a turbine motor agitates the water. An ice
pack or ice bag may be applied for as few as 15 and as long as 30 minutes, except in special circumstances. A
barrier, such as a towel must be used when commercial packs are applied. Ice bags may be held or wrapped
directly to the skin.
Indications
 Spasticity

Acute inflammation
42

Fever reduction

Localized burns

Edema
Contraindications

Cardiac dysfunction

Open wounds

Athletes hypersensitive to cold

Athletes with anesthetic skin

Athletes with regenerating peripheral nerves
iv.
Electrical Muscle Stimulation:
Electrical Muscle Stimulation (EMS) is an effective way to treat certain muscle and joint injuries. Through the
use of an external electrical impulse and depending on the parameters, it can aid muscle healing through
relaxation, decrease pain, decrease swelling, increase muscle tone/contractibility, and decrease atrophy. There
are a variety of different types including: Interferential Current (IFC), Pre-Modulated (Premod), Biphasic,
Monopolar High Volt, Russian, Micro-Current etc. IFC is the current of choice to reduce pain. Both channel 1
and channel 2 must be used. Four electrodes are firmly places around the injury. A fixed or sweeping current
may be used. General treatment time is 20 minutes. Either cold or heat therapy may be used with IFC depending
on what the treatments desired outcome is and what stage of healing the athlete is in. This is up to the
discretion and expertise of each athletic trainer. PreMod is similar to IFC only it uses one channel only. The
two electrodes are firmly placed proximal and distal to the injury. Biphasic and monopolar are similar to
PreMod. Russian EMS is unique and intense. It is used for muscle re-education, increasing tone and
contractibility, and strengthening. One channel with two electrodes may be used. The electrodes are places on
the involved muscle. Treatment times generally last between 10 and 15 minutes. Weights may be used and
partial ROM exercises may be performed during treatment. Typical contract/relax settings are as follows 10:50,
10:30, 10:10, and continuous.
Indications

Peripheral nerve injuries

Tendon transplants

Muscle inhibition

Upper motor neuron lesions

Disuse atrophy

Limited ROM

Chronic and acute pain

Muscle relaxation
43
Contraindications

Pacemakers

Directly over metal implants


Active bleeding at or near treatment area
Malignancies

Pregnancy

Treatment over the carotid sinus

Skin irritation/wound

Avoid over anesthetic skin
v.
Hydrotherapy:
Hydrotherapy is any type of treatment modality that uses water. A body part is immersed in water and a turbine
motor agitates the water. Typically a hot whirlpool (HWP), warm whirlpool (WWP), and cold whirlpool (CWP)
are the preferred options for treatment. Treatment parameters are based on what is the desired outcome and
what stage of healing the athlete is in. This is up to the discretion and expertise of each athletic trainer. HWP
temperatures range from 99-110 degrees Fahrenheit. WWP temperatures range between 80-99 degrees
Fahrenheit. CWP temperatures range between 32-80 degrees Fahrenheit.
Indications

Sub-acute and chronic inflammation

Peripheral vascular disease

Peripheral nerve injuries

Conditions that produce muscle weakness
Contraindications
 Fever
vi.

Infections

Acute Injury

Cardiac instability

Hypertension

Respiratory instability

Malignancies

Active bleeding
Intermittent Pneumatic Compression:
Compression pumps apply external pressure to edematous body parts. Pressure is provided by air that is
pumped between two layers via rubber tubing. The compression pump helps to reduce excessive swelling.
Treatment times may last up to an hour twice a day until the swelling has subsided. The involved extremity
should be elevated 30 degrees during treatment. Stockinet’s should be applied before treatment for sanitation of
the air bag attachment and to help retard swelling after treatment is complete. The pressure of the pump should
not exceed the athlete's diastolic blood pressure. Girth measurements should be taken before and after treatment.
44
Indications

Lymphedema/traumatic edema

Venous insufficiency

Amputations
Contraindications

Arterial insufficiency

Infections

Thrombophlebitis

Edema from cardiac dysfunction
vii.
Quad-7 Cold and Hot compression:
The Quad 7 can be used as four different modalities: cold, heat, and compression. The compression component
applies external pressure to help reduce excessive swelling. Cold can be used as a vasoconstrictor to limit
edema formation and control pain. Heat can be used as a vasodilator prior to practice or competition. The
Electrical Stimulation application can be combined with heat or cold therapy through the probe. The probe can
be used for focal areas such as trigger points.
Indications and Contradications

viii.
Refer to Cryotherapy, Thermotherapy, Electrical Stimulation, and Compression
Iontophoresis:
Iontophoresis is a type of direct current that forces medication (typically acetic acid or dexamethasone) through
the patch into the target tissue to further help alleviate symptoms. Treatment time lasts between 10 and 40
minutes depending upon the intensity. Treatment may be painful at times and occasionally may burn or blister
the epidermis. Medication must be approved by a licensed and practicing physician. The medication is applied
to the medicated patch. A dispersive pad must be used. The medicated patch must be placed directly over the
affected area.
Indications

Athletes foot


Rhinitis
Decubitus ulcers

Post-traumatic edema

Plantar Warts

Trigger points

Acute rheumatoid arthritis

Acute and subacute inflammation

Gout
45

Anesthetic skin
Contraindications:

Anesthetic skin


Recent scars
Metal embedded close to the tx area

Active bleeding

Pacemaker
ix.
Paraffin:
A paraffin bath is one in which a tank is filled with wax and mineral oil mixture. Paraffin is another form of
heat therapy used by athletic trainers. It significantly retains perspiration and helps soften the skin. Paraffin
treatment may be given daily in sub-acute situations and less often for chronic conditions. Mix the wax and oil
according to the directions. Keep mixture in a heated container and recycle it after each use. Athletes must
wash hands prior to treatment. The hand or foot may be dipped and removed in the mixture up to ten times or
held in the mixture for up to two minutes. After the athlete removes the hand/foot from the mixture they must
place it into a plastic bag, and then slip it into a terry cloth cover for up to 15 minutes. Remove dry wax from
the involved area after treatment and add it to the original mixture.
Indications

Sub-acute traumatic and inflammatory conditions

Chronic traumatic and inflammatory conditions
Contraindications

Open wounds

Acute injuries

Athletes with sensory deficiencies

Fever

Active bleeding

Cardiac insufficiency

Persons with unreliable thermoregulatory systems

Peripheral vascular disease
x.
Moist Hot Packs:
Moist hot packs are a conductive means of delivering superficial heat. Moist hot packs are made of canvas and
filled with silica gel. They are immersed in a heated unit that keeps the temperature at or near 170 degrees
Fahrenheit. The heat usually dissipates within a half hour. The pack should be covered with ample padding. As
the head dissipates the layers may be removed. Treatment usually takes place before activity and lasts for up to
30 minutes. The canvas of the hot pack must never touch the skin directly.
Indications

Muscle spasm and/or tightness
46

Sub-acute traumatic and inflammatory conditions

Chronic traumatic and inflammatory conditions
Contraindications


Acute injuries
Malignancies

Active bleeding

Cardiac insufficiency

Athletes with unreliable thermoregulatory systems

Peripheral vascular disease

Athletes with decreased sensations to tx area

Edema

Mentally confused individual
xi.
Ultrasound/Phonophoresis:
Ultrasound is a heat modality that penetrates the soft tissue up to 5 cm. Ultrasound may be used for a variety of
conditions. Specific settings for specific treatment sites and conditions make ultrasound difficult to administer
for a layperson. Typically treatment times last between 5-8 minutes. Superficial pathologies are usually treated
2
between 0.1 watts/cm2 and 2.5 watts/cm on a continuous duty cycle. Adjusting the MHz determines the depth
of penetration an ultrasound treatment can obtain. Adding a hydrocortisone mixture as a coupling agent to the
treatment will increase the inflammation reduction benefit; this is frequently referred to as Phonophoresis. The
sound head must be applied to a transmission medium for it to be effective. The sound head must always be in
contact with the gel or a water medium so the crystal within the sound head does not shatter. Both circular and
stroking patterns (half over half) may be used to deliver the therapy.
Indications

Soft tissues shortening

Joint contractures

Scar tissue formations


Sub-acute and chronic inflammation
Muscle guarding

Trigger points

Neuromas
Contraindications

Treatment over the eyes

Bleeding in the treatment area

Treatment near the uterus during pregnancy

Cancer

Infection
47

Treatment over the carotid sinus

Treatment over the cervical ganglia

Pregnancy

Over Gonads
48
HEALTH AND SAFETY
49
A. BLOOD-BORN PATHOGENS:
The West Liberty University Athletic Training Staff have adopted the OSHA guidelines as the gold standard
of care involving situations regarding blood borne pathogens. All athletic training personnel are trained in
using Personal Protective Equipment (PPE), and know the potential risks of exposure. In the event of
exposure, the involved individual must complete the Exposure Report Form. After the proper documentation
is recorded, the athletic trainer will contact the University's Health and Safety Specialist for testing and/or
treatment if necessary. PPE must be worn when providing first aid or any other procedure to individuals who
may expose the healthcare provider to potentially contaminated bodily fluids (blood, emesis, etc.) After use,
protective gloves should be discarded and all other items should be sterilized or laundered. Materials that are
contaminated with blood or other bodily fluid including gloves, gauze, towels, etc. should be discarded in an
approved red biohazard bag/container. If the contaminated item is a syringe, scalpel or other rigid object it
must be discarded in an approved sharps container. Personal Protective Equipment includes: gloves, goggles,
face shields, pocket masks, gowns, toe shields, etc.
B. MEDICATION DISTRIBUTION:
i.
Prescription Drug Distribution:
Only qualified and board certified physicians (specifically M.D., D.O.) may dispense or administer
prescription drugs as needed in an appropriate manner. Standing orders may be issued by the team
physician with regard to prescription drug administration.
ii.
Over the Counter (OTC) Drug Distribution:
Anyone of legal age may administer a single dose of OTC medication to an athlete. OTC meds are distributed
on an as-needed basis. OTC medications are also available at Health Services and in the Athletic Training
Facility. The athlete taking the medication needs to be responsible, both the athletic trainers and the athlete need
to be aware of the following information:
1. Medications should only be taken as directed
2. Labels should not be removed from the containers
3. Medications should not be used after the expiration date
4. Oral medications should be taken with a full glass of water unless otherwise directed
5. Containers of medications should be in locked compartments-bottles with childproof lids are preferred
6. Be aware of banned drugs/supplements by NCAA and IOC
7. Provide verbal instructions for medication use
8. Be aware of the dose schedule associated with medication taken
9. Advise athletes not to share medications with others
10. Be aware of interactions of a medication with other drugs, foods, supplements and exercise
C. IV THERAPY:
IV therapy may be administered when local EMS Advanced Life Support is available, or under physician
50
supervision. See Appendix P.
D. TROPICAL ANALGESICS/MEDS:
BioFreeze, atomic balm, red hot, hydrocortisone creams, etc. are used to the athletic trainer's discretion in
conjunction with current medical standards.
E. METERED-DOSED INHALERS:
Bronchodilators are available and are used at the discretion ofthe athletic trainer(s) through the
regulations for use consistent with the WVEMS. See Appendix P.
F. EPIPENS:
Epinephrine injectors are available and are used at the discretion ofthe athletic trainer( s) through the
regulations for use consistent with the WVEMS. See Appendix P.
G. ACETYLSALICYLIC ACID:
Aspirin will not be administered by the athletic training staff due to the safety concerns relating to Reye's
syndrome. Baby aspirins are on hand in the event of chest pains. Baby aspirins will be administered in a
manner consistent with WVEMS.
H. DEXAMETHASONE:
Iontophoresis using dexamethasone can be done in the athletic training room with a physician’s order.
I. SUPPLEMENTS:
The West Liberty University Athletic Training Staff does not distribute or endorse any performance enhancing
ergogenic aids based on the lack of regulation by the USFDA under the Dietary Supplement Health and
Education Act (DSHEA) of 1994. See Appendix Q for a list of NCAA banned substances.
J. PREGNANCY:
Any athlete with a suspected or confirmed pregnancy will be referred to Health Services or a physician or their
choosing for further evaluation, participation guidelines/restrictions, and counseling if necessary. Written
medical clearance is required if the athlete wishes to continue athletic participation during pregnancy. Written
medical clearance is also required after delivery or termination of a pregnancy.
If a student athlete approaches an athletic trainer about a suspected or confirmed pregnancy, all information will
be kept confidential.
K. HEAT ILLNESS:
During athletic events the athletic training staff carefully monitors the temperature and humidity using the
National Weather Service and sling/digital psychrometer measurements. Athletes are constantly reminded to
maintain their hydration status, especially sports that require protective equipment. Coaches are also made
51
aware of any potential health risks due to the temperature and humidity. Practice and competition
modifications are suggested by the athletic training staff, and Gatorade and ice towels are provided on an as
needed basis.
L. LIGHTNING SAFETY POLICY:
The NCAA lightning policy recommends that someone is specifically designated to monitor the weather
conditions at all events and practices and they adhere to the NCAA’s standard of safety regarding weather.
Certified Athletic Trainers are by the very nature of their job responsible for the well-being and safety of the
athletes that they work with without regard to wins, losses, or quality/quantity of practice. Certified Athletic
Trainers are taught weather management skills didactically and clinically because of its literal translation to
protecting athletes. It is for this reason that West Liberty University recommends that a Certified Athletic
Trainer have the unchallengeable authority to postpone any practice or contest due to the threat of lightning and
that the Certified Athletic Trainer has the unchallengeable authority over return to play decisions.
i.
West Liberty University Lightning Policy
52
53
54
M. INFECTION CONTROL AND PREVENTION
The following infection control information sheets are posted throughout the athletic event and locker areas.
55
56
EMERGENCY PROCEDURES
57
A. EMERGENCY ACTION PLANS:
NATA guidelines state that it is necessary to create an Emergency Action Plan for each facility that is used by
the athletic population. The purpose of an emergency action plan is to provide easy, accurate, and concise
directions in the event of a medical emergency. West Liberty University Athletic Training abides by this
guideline and has posted specific Emergency Action Plans for each athletic venue.
A. ASRC Athletic Weight Room
B. ASRC Basketball Court
C. ASRC Men's Visiting Locker Room
D. ASRC Women's Visiting Locker Room
E. ASRC Indoor Track
F. Baseball Field
G. Blatnik Gym
H. Blatnik Locker Room
I. Blatnik Swimming Pool
J. H. Edgar Martin Tennis Complex
K. Soccer/Baseball Athletic Training Room
L. Soccer Complex
M. Softball Field
N. West Family Stadium Game day
O. West Family Stadium General
P. Wrestling Practice Room
58
59
60
61
62
63
64
65
66
67
68
69
70
71
72
73
74
OTHER POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
75
A. PORTABLE RADIO USAGE GUIDELINES:
The use of portable radios in athletic training is for professional communication only. In order to assure clear
communication between the staff, plain talk should be used on the staff radio. The use of codes, signals, slang,
etc. is discouraged. West Liberty University Athletic Training utilizes two different types of portable radios.
The first type is Motorola brand commercial/consumer portable radios. Currently, the athletic training staff has
six of these radios on hand with certain accessories. These are used to communicate within the staff only. These
radios should be set on channel 15, security code 1.
The second type of portable radio used by the staff is West Liberty Volunteer Fire Department portable radios.
These radios offer direct access to Ohio County EMS, Brooke County EMS, Ohio County Law Enforcement,
Wheeling Hospital, and OVMC. There are currently two of these radios on hand. These radios are to be used by
the FD members only. As this system is part of the county-wide system, certain codes may be used. (See
Below). Non-essential communication on these radios is strictly prohibited.
Ohio County EMS radio:
Herb Minch:
West Liberty Fire Station
West Liberty Chief
West Liberty Assistant Chief
West Liberty Captain
West Liberty Lieutenants
West Liberty Ambulance
West Liberty Support
Clearview VFD Ambulance
Bethany VFD Ambulance
WLU Campus Police
West Liberty Police
Ohio County Sheriff’s Dept
WV State Police
West Liberty Unit #4
40
41
42
43,44
44-1 through 44-4
45 or 45-1
48-1
85
25 or 25-1
1400
1300
Units 1-36
140, 309, 456, 648
Ohio County EMS radio
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Athletic Training Program
Student Handbook
This handbook outlines the rules and regulations that you as a student in the
Athletic Training Program at West Liberty University must follow. As an Athletic
Training Student (ATS), you are responsible for abiding by these rules and
regulations as well as other rules established by the university. Every attempt will
be made to adhere to these rules consistently. In extenuating circumstances, the
program director and/or clinical education coordinator reserve the right to make
decisions on an individual basis.
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A Note to You as an Athletic Training Student:
After reading and signing the Student Policies Agreement
form at the end of the document, you will have agreed to
abide by the Code of Ethics (Appendix A) that governs the
behavior of those working in this profession. This is a
serious responsibility that you assume as a student in this
program. While the contents of this handbook give you
specific information about your conduct and behavior as a
student, you should always remember that the Code of Ethics
is your guide while you are preparing to become an athletic
training professional. (See section on Athletic Training Code
of Ethics)
Good Luck and we are pleased to have you in the Athletic
Training Program.
Dr. Hanna
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STUDENT HANDBOOK
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A.
WLU Athletic Training Program Mission Statement ................................................. 81
B.
WLU Athletic Training Program Outcomes .............................................................. 81
C.
Progression in Program............................................................................................... 81
1.
GRADE-POINT REQUIREMENTS ...............................................................................................81
2.
STUDENT PRE-CLINICAL PHYSICALS ......................................................................................81
3.
CLINICAL ROTATIONS .............................................................................................................82
4.
D.
E.
a.
AT 200 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum I – 1 hour ...........................................82
b.
AT 205 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum II– 1 hour...........................................82
c.
AT 300: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum III – 2 hours ......................................82
d.
AT 305: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum IV – 2 hours .....................................83
e.
AT 400: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum V – 2 hours .......................................83
f.
AT 405: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum VI – 2 hours .....................................83
CLINICAL HOURS POLICY .......................................................................................................84
Attendance Policy ....................................................................................................... 84
1.
CLASS ATTENDANCE ..............................................................................................................84
2.
CLINICAL ATTENDANCE..........................................................................................................84
a.
Excused Absences ......................................................................................................84
b.
Unexcused Absences .................................................................................................85
c.
Calling off during your clinical rotation ....................................................................86
d.
Clinical Tardiness ......................................................................................................86
e.
Expected Hours of Work ...........................................................................................86
f.
Make-up Time ............................................................................................................86
g.
Illness during Clinical Attendance .............................................................................87
h.
Injury during Clinical Attendance .............................................................................87
i.
Extended Illness/Injury Policy ...................................................................................87
j.
Inclement Weather Policy ..........................................................................................88
Composite Clinical Performance Evaluation ............................................................. 88
1.
GRADING ................................................................................................................................88
a.
Student Notebooks .....................................................................................................88
b.
Clinical Academic Assignments ................................................................................89
c.
Final Evaluation Forms ..............................................................................................89
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d.
F.
Clinical Rotation Rules and Guidelines...................................................................... 91
1.
APPEARANCE/DRESS CODE.....................................................................................................91
2.
SPECIFIC RULES AND REGULATIONS .......................................................................................93
3.
IMPAIRED THINKING ...............................................................................................................93
a.
G.
H.
I.
Cheating and Plagiarism ............................................................................................89
Drug/Alcohol Use ......................................................................................................93
4.
CRIMINAL BACKGROUND CHECK............................................................................................94
5.
PREGNANCY POLICY ...............................................................................................................94
6.
INFECTIOUS DISEASE POLICY ..................................................................................................94
7.
HIPAA TRAINING ...................................................................................................................94
8.
UNIVERSAL PRECAUTIONS ......................................................................................................94
9.
CPR CERTIFICATION ...............................................................................................................96
10.
HEALTH INSURANCE ...............................................................................................................96
Additional Costs ......................................................................................................... 96
1.
MALPRACTICE INSURANCE .....................................................................................................96
2.
STUDENT TRANSPORTATION ...................................................................................................96
3.
STUDENT HOUSING .................................................................................................................96
General Information/Activities ................................................................................... 96
1.
STUDENT EMPLOYMENT .........................................................................................................97
2.
ATHLETIC PARTICIPATION ......................................................................................................97
3.
ATHLETIC SEASON ..................................................................................................................97
4.
STUDENT HEALTH REPORTING POLICY ...................................................................................97
5.
PROFESSIONAL ASSOCIATION MEMBERSHIP ...........................................................................97
Disciplinary Procedures .............................................................................................. 98
1.
FIRST OFFENSE: ......................................................................................................................98
2.
SECOND OFFENSE: ..................................................................................................................98
3.
THIRD OFFENSE: .....................................................................................................................98
a.
Permanent Dismissal from a Clinical Site .................................................................98
J.
NATA Code of Ethics ................................................................................................ 100
K.
STUDENT POLICIES AGREEMENT ...................................................................... 102
80
A. WLU Athletic Training Program Mission Statement
The Mission of the WLU ATP is to graduate a student that demonstrates effective communication and ethical
decision making while always considering patient-centered values. In addition, the ability to practice and
apply evidence-based medicine in patient care is vital. As well as providing a culture of peer mentoring and
leadership that builds knowledge, strengthens clinical skill application, and facilitates an environment of
continuous learning, while constantly advocating for the profession of athletic training in various health care
settings.
B. WLU Athletic Training Program Outcomes
Objective #1: Students will demonstrate the ability to provide quality healthcare to a diverse patient population
in various healthcare settings.
Objective #2: Students will understand the roles and responsibility of an Athletic Trainer across a variety of
health care settings.
Objective #3: Students will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to interpret current evidence-based
research and apply it to clinical practice.
Objective #4: Students will be able to communicate effectively to a variety people in various health care
professions.
C. Progression in Program
1. Grade-Point Requirements
Successful completion of all required courses is necessary for you as a student in the Athletic Training
major to progress in the program. You are expected to meet and maintain at least a 2.8 overall
University GPA for all Core courses.
You must also earn at least a C or better in ALL athletic training program courses, as well as in other
specified courses from the athletic training program. Violations of this policy will be dealt with on a
case-by-case basis by the program director.
2. Student Pre-Clinical Physicals
All accepted athletic training program students are required to have submitted a completed “Mandatory
Health form” and updated immunization records to the University Health Center prior to the return of
the sophomore year. Failure to do so will delay the students’ participation in their clinical rotations.
Further proof of health records or additional requirements might be expected for off-campus clinical
rotations. This is dependent upon and individualized to each site, and students will be expected to
comply.
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3. Clinical Rotations
(Six Clinical Practicums over six semesters described below) All students are required to be familiar
with the Emergency Action Plan at each site as well as the NCAA Sports Medicine Handbook if
indicated.
a. AT 200 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum I – 1 hour
This clinical rotation allows for the sophomore level student to gain experience in the profession of
Athletic Training outside of the classroom and in the clinical setting. Under the supervision of a
preceptor, the student will be challenged to transfer knowledge learned didactically and apply it in the
clinical setting. Students will be expected to begin to understand and demonstrate the knowledge and
skills identified in the Standards as designated by the CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of
Athletic Training Education) and its eight content areas: Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and
Health Promotion; Clinical Examination and Diagnosis; Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic
Interventions; Psychosocial Strategies and Referral; Healthcare Administration; and Professional
Development and Responsibility. A minimum of 75 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the
class.
Prerequisites: AT 100: minimum grade “B”, AT 115: minimum grade “C.”
b. AT 205 Athletic Training Clinical Practicum II– 1 hour
This clinical rotation allows for the sophomore level student to gain experience in the profession of
Athletic Training outside of the classroom and in the clinical setting. Under the supervision of a
preceptor, the student will be challenged to transfer knowledge learned didactically and apply it in the
clinical setting as well as build on current information learned in the first clinical practicum. Students
will be expected to begin to understand and demonstrate the knowledge and skills identified in the
Standards as designated by the CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training
Education) and its eight content areas: Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and Health Promotion;
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis; Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic Interventions;
Psychosocial Strategies and Referral; Healthcare Administration; and Professional Development and
Responsibility. A minimum of 75 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the class.
Prerequisites: AT 200: minimum grade “C.”
c. AT 300: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum III – 2 hours
Building on the first year of clinical experiences, students will continue to be challenged to transfer
knowledge gained in the classroom and apply it in the clinical settings. Under the supervision of a
preceptor, the students will be expected to demonstrate the knowledge and skills identified in the
Standards as designated by the CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training
Education) and its eight content areas: Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and Health Promotion;
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis; Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic Interventions;
Psychosocial Strategies and Referral; Healthcare Administration; and Professional Development and
Responsibility. A minimum of 150 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the class.
Prerequisites: AT 205: minimum grade “C.”
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d. AT 305: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum IV – 2 hours
Building on the first year of clinical experiences, students will continue to be challenged to transfer
knowledge gained in the classroom and apply it in the clinical settings. Under the supervision of a
preceptor, the students will be expected to demonstrate the knowledge and skills identified in the
Standards as designated by the CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training
Education) and its eight content areas: Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and Health Promotion;
Clinical Examination and Diagnosis; Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic Interventions;
Psychosocial Strategies and Referral; Healthcare Administration; and Professional Development and
Responsibility. A minimum of 150 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the class.
Prerequisites: AT 300: minimum grade “C.”
e. AT 400: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum V – 2 hours
Senior level students will now have four semesters of clinical practicum cohort entering their final
year of the program. The students will continue to be challenged to transfer knowledge gained in the
classroom and apply it in the clinical settings. Under the supervision of a preceptor, the students will
be expected to demonstrate the knowledge and skills identified in the Standards as designated by the
CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education) and its eight content areas:
Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and Health Promotion; Clinical Examination and Diagnosis;
Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic Interventions; Psychosocial Strategies and Referral;
Healthcare Administration; and Professional Development and Responsibility. At the senior level it is
to be expected the student will be polishing the skills of a successful clinician such as evaluation skills,
critical thinking and problem solving, exercise and rehabilitation prescriptions and appropriate
decision making when diagnosing injuries and choosing modalities for treatment plans. A minimum of
150 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the class.
Prerequisites: AT 305: minimum grade “C.”
f. AT 405: Athletic Training Clinical Practicum VI – 2 hours
Senior level students will now have four semesters of clinical practicum cohort entering their final
year of the program. The students will continue to be challenged to transfer knowledge gained in the
classroom and apply it in the clinical settings. Under the supervision of a preceptor, the students will
be expected to demonstrate the knowledge and skills identified in the Standards as designated by the
CAATE (Commission on Accreditation of Athletic Training Education) and its eight content areas:
Evidence-Based Practice; Prevention and Health Promotion; Clinical Examination and Diagnosis;
Acute Care of Injury and Illness; Therapeutic Interventions; Psychosocial Strategies and Referral;
Healthcare Administration; and Professional Development and Responsibility. At the senior level it is
to be expected the student will be polishing the skills of a successful clinician such as evaluation skills,
critical thinking and problem solving, exercise and rehabilitation prescriptions and appropriate
decision making when diagnosing injuries and choosing modalities for treatment plans. A minimum of
150 clinical hours is required to earn credit for the class.
Prerequisites: AT 400: minimum grade “C.”
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4. Clinical Hours Policy
All students are to meet the minimum requirements for clinical hours based on their current level of
clinical practicum class for which they are enrolled. All 200 level classes require completion of a
minimum of 75 clinical hours and all 300 and 400 level classes require completion of a minimum of 150
hours. However, students most likely exceed these minimums and should expect this to occur. These
hours are inclusive to actual hours of work and not travel or hotel time on trips. A student’s maximum
hours of clinical work should not include more than 20 hours a week in any Practicum or 300 hours per
semester or 600 per year.
D. Attendance Policy
1. Class Attendance
You are expected to attend all class meetings. Attendance is checked at the discretion of each professor.
Specific attendance requirements are delineated in each course syllabus. It is your responsibility to
obtain assignments and materials missed during any absence.
2. Clinical Attendance
You are prohibited by the CAATE standard #59 to receive any compensation whatsoever for your
clinical education experiences and work related to that of your clinical education experiences.
You are required to attend all clinical experiences per the specific site’s schedule. It is to be treated like
a work schedule for a real, paying job.
You are expected to make these schedules with your Clincial Preceptor and adhere to them during the
semester. Failure to do so could result in a change in your grade and possibly removal from the
program. If you have another job, it is your responsibility to arrange your clinical site hours with your
preceptor.
It is your responsibility to keep accurate and updated time sheets or a spreadsheet of actual times worked
at each clinical rotation. Time sheets or the spreadsheet can each be obtained from the clinical
coordinator. Tardiness and leaving early must be documented with the reason why and the clinical
supervisor’s signature.
Time sheets will be inspected at the clinical coordinator’s visit. Failure to complete these time sheets
properly and accurately will result in no credit for those clinical hours in question, and you must make
up those hours. Any discrepancy in time recorded on the time sheet and the time you actually worked
could result in an UNEXCUSED absence and will be handled on an individual basis with the clinic
education coordinator.
a. Excused Absences
In each clinical rotation you are permitted a total of three excused absences that you do not need to
make up. You will be granted an excused absence for the following reasons:
84
1.
Other WLU activities that could be academic in other classes or extracurricularrelated such as athletics, theater, etc. You must provide a note from the
corresponding professor for a valid excuse to miss.
2.
A death in the immediate family.
3.
Injury or illness. Should you be absent longer than two consecutive days because
of injury or illness, you will be required to obtain a physician’s excuse stating the
date of the physician’s visit and the specific recommendation that you should not
attend clinical rotation for a given number of days. Additionally, the program
director reserves the right to require a physician’s excuse for any questionable
absence.
b. Unexcused Absences
The following are considered UNEXCUSED absences and will count toward your three available to
miss during the semester:
1.
Any absence for reasons other than those stated above.
2.
Absence because of injury or illness greater than two consecutive days without a
physician’s excuse.
3.
Failure to follow the call-off policy. (See Call-Off Policy)
4.
Any tardiness that exceeds the limit of three per clinical rotation. (See Clinical
Tardiness Policy)
5.
Failure to call the clinical supervisor at the site when you will be more than 30
minutes late for work. (See Clinical Tardiness Policy)
6.
Leaving early without prior approval from the clinical supervisor at the site.
7.
Any discrepancy between time recorded on the time sheet and time actually
worked.
8.
Any dismissal by the clinical supervisor at the site because of inappropriate and
unacceptable behavior.
Time missed because of an unexcused absence must always be made up. Any quizzes or tests missed
will be receive the grade of “0” (See Make-Up Time Policy).
* The program director and/or the clinical coordinator may deal with any unexcused absence at his/her
discretion. Most incidences will follow the Disciplinary Policy of the WLU Handbook and will be
handled according to the disciplinary policy. (See Disciplinary Procedure.).
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c. Calling off during your clinical rotation
1.
If you should be absent from a clinical rotation for any reason, please try to notify
your preceptor at least an hour ahead of scheduled starting time.
*Failure to follow this procedure exactly will result in an UNEXCUSED absence.
d. Clinical Tardiness
Tardiness is defined as arriving at the clinical area any time later than the scheduled starting time,
regardless of the reason. If you realize that you will be more than 30 minutes late to work, you must
notify your preceptor immediately. If he/she is not available, a message should be left with the
clinical site.
Tardiness is neither tolerated nor professional; however, you are permitted two incidents of tardiness
before receiving an UNEXCUSED absence, providing that the above notification procedure was
followed. Failure to follow this procedure will result in an UNEXCUSED absence. Any
UNEXCUSED absence will be handled according to the disciplinary policy (See Disciplinary
Procedure.).
The reason for any tardiness must be documented on your time sheet and signed by your preceptor.
The time missed must also be made up. Arrangements will be made between you and the preceptor.
(See Make-up Time)
e. Expected Hours of Work
You are prohibited by the CAATE standard #59 to receive any compensation whatsoever for your
clinical education experiences and work related to that of your clinical education experiences.
Work times are dependent upon your site location, the athletic team to which you have been assigned,
and your preceptor. Many times, your schedule will be determined by the starting and ending times
of athletic practices and events.
The preceptor at each site will determine starting and finishing times. Be prepared for sudden changes
in work schedules as practices and games might be changed because of weather or the head coach’s
needs. THIS IS YOUR EDUCATION AND CLINICAL PRACTICUM ROTATION. IT IS TO BE
TREATED AS SUCH.
You are required by the CAATE standard #58 to have at least one day off in a seven day period.
This will be addressed by your preceptor at your clinical site rotation, while individual schedules are
being constructed.
f. Make-up Time
Any unexcused absence from a clinical rotation must be made up. It is your responsibility to schedule
this make-up time with both the clinical coordinator and the preceptor at the site. Any assignment
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missed as a result of any absence must also be completed. A grade of “0” will be given for any quiz or
test missed because of an unexcused absence. Failure to make up the missed hours in a timely fashion
will be handled according to the disciplinary policy (See Disciplinary Procedures).
g. Illness during Clinical Attendance
If you become ill during clinical practice, you should notify your preceptor and proceed as directed by
the clinical supervisor. If the preceptor permits you to leave because of illness, it will be considered an
excused absence, and the hours must be made up if you have exceeded three excused absences. If you
leave the clinical site, the clinical coordinator should be notified that day. (See Excused Absences
Policy)
h. Injury during Clinical Attendance
If you are injured in any way during a clinical experience, you must report the injury to the preceptor
and to the clinical coordinator at WLU. You must then follow the procedure required by the clinical site.
If such procedures involve emergency room services or other treatment, you will be responsible for any
expenses incurred. (See Health Insurance Explanation)
i. Extended Illness/Injury Policy
The following duties listed below are necessary for the completion of each clinical rotation. On a daily
basis, any or all of these might be required. The full spectrum of duties necessary in the practice of
athletic training may include more, but these are some of the more common ones:
1.
Moving and lifting patients/athletes
2.
Moving and lifting water coolers and ice chests
3.
Pushing and pulling wheelchairs
4.
Obtaining histories from patients
5.
Stocking the training room shelves with equipment and supplies
6.
Loading and unloading medical and travel supplies on trips.
You will not be able to participate in a clinical rotation unless you can perform the aforementioned
tasks.
Should an extended illness/injury occur that prevents you from performing at full capacity as listed
above, the following procdures must be followed:
1.
Notify the clinical coordinator and preceptor of your site as soon as possible.
2.
Written documentation from your physician including the time expected to be
absent from the clinical rotation clinical must be faxed to the clinical coordinator
as soon as possible and no later than five days after work has begun being missed.
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3.
Missed time is expected to be made up after you obtain a physician’s release
stating that you are able to perform all duties with no limitations.
4.
You may not return to the clinical setting without the prior approval of the clinical
coordinator or program director.
Should the illness or injury require you to be absent from the clinical rotation longer than one month,
your situation must be reevaluated before you may re-enter the rotation. Re-entry depends on your
clinical/academic performance prior to the illness or injury. If your clinical/academic performance was
less than satisfactory, you may not be able to re-enter the program. Re-entry will be the decision of the
program director/clinical coordinator and the academic administration at the institution and will be
evaluated on an individual case basis.
You must make up any time missed because of extended illness or injury. It is your responsibility to
make these arrangements with the clinical coordinator. Failure to make up the missed time could result
in dismissal from the program.
j. Inclement Weather Policy
When inclement weather causes driving conditions to be hazardous, attendance at clinical rotation is
left to your discretion. You should call the preceptor at the site to discuss road conditions. Missed time
will need to be made up when missed.
E. Composite Clinical Performance Evaluation
This section entails the entire clinical practicum experience. If any aspect of the following subsections is
deemed to be incomplete or inadequate by the clinical coordinator, the situation will be handled individualy.
Other appropriate university personnel could become involved as necessary.
1. Grading
Each clinical site could have the following items graded regularly throughout the semester:
1.
Student notebooks, any written or oral projects, assignments, or quizzes (assigned
at that particular site, which is that site coordinator’s discretion)
2.
Final evaluation and grade from clinical site
3.
Performance Skill Objectives
a. Student Notebooks
Each student will be responsible for keeping a log of his/her clinical- rotation experiences. It will be at
the discretion of the clinical coordinator as to what information needs to be included during each
expericence. This will be provided to you based upon your rotation year in the program. You will be
given a format to follow prior to starting your clinical rotation.
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b. Clinical Academic Assignments
You are responsible for the completion of any projects, assignments, quizzes, or tests that may be
given to you during a clinical rotation. The clinical coordinator or the preceptor at the site may make
assignments. You will be given advance notice of any quiz or test. Any missed assignment must be
completed, but any quiz or test missed because of an unexcused absence will receive a grade of “0.”
c. Final Evaluation Forms
A final evaluation form will be completed at the end of your clinical experience at each site. These
forms are located on ATrack. You and the preceptor for your clinical site whill complete these.
d. Cheating and Plagiarism
Neither cheating nor plagiarism will be tolerated—at all!!!!
West Liberty University Academic Standards are to be upheld at all times. The faculty has the
responsibility for seeing that all students receive credit for work they have done. Should cheating or
plagiarism be suspected, it will be dealt with per university policy and procedure. Students are also
expected to report any observed instances of dishonesty to the instructor in charge. Failure to do so
makes the observer as guilty as the one who is cheating. Students will not receive credit for work
which is not their own. If proven, cheating could result in expulsion from the program and the
university in accordance with the university policy and procedures. Each incident will be handled
on an individual basis.
Plagiarism is the use of another’s words, writings, thoughts, or ideas without giving proper credit.
Taking a section of a book or a magazine article and copying it essentially word for word without
giving proper credit to the author is one example of plagiarism. The instructor who detects plagiarism
will review with you the circumstances that constitute plagiarism. If proven, plagiarism could result
in expulsion from the program and the university in accordance the university policy and
procedures. Each incident will be handled on an individual basis.
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F. Clinical Rotation Rules and Guidelines
1. Appearance/Dress Code
As a student, you represent both West Liberty University and the profession of Athletic Training. You
are expected to dress and conduct yourself in a professional, responsible manner. Your clothing is to be
appropriate and in accordance with whatever site you are assigned. You must wear appropriate clothing
at all times or face reprimand from the necessary parties involved.
*You may be expected to purchase clothing for your clinical site depending on the site. Students are
highly encouraged to raise funds as an AT club for items such as these.
*You must be wearing approved apparel for your clinical sites, especially game coverages per your site.
West Liberty University Clinical Athletic Training Program Dress Code
As an athletic training student, you represent both West Liberty University and the profession of Athletic
Training during your clinical rotations. You are expected to dress and conduct yourself in a professional,
responsible manner. Your clothing is to be appropriate and in accordance with professional standards. You must
wear appropriate clothing at all times.
Site‐specific shirt/T‐shirt/polo (cannot have another school’s name/logo).
No skirts or dresses for day-to-day operations. No low-cut fitting shirts or tank tops
Shirts should be tucked in, and belts are highly recommended.
Khaki or athletic type shorts/pants. Shorts cannot be shorter than mid-thigh. No jeans.
Shoes worn should be safe and comfortable. Sandals, flip-flops, clogs, slippers, open-toed shoes, or
heels are not permitted for day-to-day operations. Socks must be worn at all times. Open-toed shoes and
heels are permitted when worn as part of a formal outfit.
6. No holes in any clothing.
7. Hair must be neat and clean. Hair must not come in contact with the patient. Beards, moustaches and
sideburns must be neat and trimmed.
8. Jewelry should not be excessive. Earrings, rings, and necklaces should be kept to a minimum. Only
small earrings may be worn. No visible piercings beyond the ears.
9. Tongue and nose piercings are to be removed during your rotations.
10. Cosmetics must convey a professional appearance. Make-up should not be excessive. The length of the
fingernails must promote patient and employee safety. Nail polish must be appropriate and in good
repair.
11. No hats are to be worn during inside-event coverage.
12. If you are working with a sport that has specific dress requirements, you must adhere to the team’s dress
code.
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
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The dress code at each clinical site may vary; however, the WLU athletic training program dress code is the
minimum expectation. If a clinical site allows for attire that violates the WLU athletic training program dress
code, students are expected to follow our stringent guidelines. If a clinical site requires attire that goes beyond
the WLU athletic training program minimum requirements, the student must follow the sites dress code.
Dress Code Violations:
If you arrive at a clinical site inappropriately dressed, the Preceptor at the site reserves the right to send you
home to change into the appropriate attire. You will be required to make up the time. Further violations will
result in more severe penalties, which will be handled by the clinical education coordinator.
Should you arrive at a clinical site inappropriately dressed, the preceptor may send you home to
change into appropriate attire. You will be required to make up any missed time.
Failure to abide by dresscode policy could result in decreased a grade, loss of academic progress,
or other measures deemed necessary.
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2. Specific Rules and Regulations
You are required to abide by the specific rules and regulations set forth by the clinical site to which
you are assigned. Other WLU athletic training program regulations include:
1. Outside Telephone Calls: You are permitted to use phones only with prior permission. You may
make outside local calls or telephone your adviser or clinical coordinator for related clinical or
university business; however, any personal calls must be approved prior to making them. Social
calls and texting are prohibited. It is prohibited to be on the sidelines of an event making any
type of call other than summoning the EMS or patient-related aid. If you need to make a call
that can’t wait, obtain permission to leave the sidelines or court. Do not make calls or be on cell
phone while covering events or practices. It is extremely unprofessional and WILL affect
your grade.
2. Follow your clinical schedule regarding vacation and days for holidays as determined by the
clinical coordinator prior to the beginning of the clinical rotation. You will not follow the West
Liberty University school calendar during clinical rotations. And you will be expected to be at
the university for coverage of you team should it run into breaks and holidays.
3. You are to present yourself in a professional manner at all times and abide by the previously set
rules and regulations of your assigned clinical site. Failure to do so can result in dismissal from
the program.
4. There is to be absolutely no trash talking or engagement in conversation with opposing team
players, coaches, staff or officials other than medically related topics.
3. Impaired Thinking
Impaired thinking constitutes a risk to patient safety. Impaired thinking is evidenced by an inability to
make appropriate judgments and carry out athletic training tasks in relation to situations that arise.
Impaired thinking may be the result of fatigue, anxiety, sleep deprivation, medication use, illegal drug
use, alcohol use, etc.
A preceptor who determines that you are exhibiting evidence of impaired thinking can ask you to leave
the clinical area and consult with the program director. You will be given an unexcused clinical absence.
(See Unexcused Absences). If drug or alcohol use is responsible for the impaired thinking, you will be
permanently dismissed from the program.
a. Drug/Alcohol Use
1. Drug and Alcohol Use at Affiliated Clinical Sites is Prohibited
a. If you are at a clinical site under the influence of drugs or alcohol or use drugs or
alcohol, you will be immediately and permanently dismissed from the Athletic
Training Program and will suffer any other university consequences regarding this
behavior.
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4. Criminal Background Check
Background checks may be required for West Liberty University Athletic Training Students based upon
your clinical assignment for that semester. If the background check reveals a conviction or other
information relevant to the position, you may be disqualified from holding that position. Your
background report may contain the following information:





Criminal records (fingerprints)
Civil records
Social Security verification
Credit reports
Employment history
5. Pregnancy Policy
Should you discover that you are pregnant during a clinical rotation, it is recommended you notify the
program director as soon as possible so necessary arrangements can be made—mainly for the
appropriate health of the child. Should the pregnancy interfere with your ability to complete your
rotation at that site, all efforts will be made to accommodate you, but no guarantees can be made.
6. Infectious Disease Policy
Students understand they must not attend their clinical rotation at anytime should they acquire
any contagious personal illnesses or infectious diseases of any kind. Furthermore, students are to
follow communication and clinical attendance policies with their clinical preceptor as detailed in
the call off proceedures.
Because of the nature of the healthcare profession, students participating in required clinical education
experiences will find themselves at risk for exposure to infectious diseases. Because you interact with
many athletes (or patients), you could inadvertently transmit disease organisms from one person to
another. Therefore, following the Standard Precautions (transmission-based precautions) set in place to
reduce the transmission of disease organisms is required. This may require the use of gloves, gowns,
and/or masks depending upon the type of transmission and the setting in which you are assigned.
Trainings are on an annual basis within the athletic training program and completions of these trainings
by the students are kept on file with the clinical coordinator.
7. HIPAA Training
This HIPAA training will be offered annually at WLU and must be completed each year prior to your
beginning a clinical rotation or observation hours. Because this training is mandatory, your completion
of it is documented and kept on file by the Program Director at West Liberty University. Failure to
complete this training will prohibit you from attending your clinical site until the training is
complete, and it could affect your clinical practicum grade.
8. Universal Precautions
This BBP training will be offered annually at WLU and must be completed each year prior to your
beginning a clinical rotation or observation hours. Because this training is mandatory, your completion
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of it is documented and kept on file by the Program Director at West Liberty University. Failure to
complete this training will prohibit you from attending your clinical site until the training is
complete, and it could affect your clinical practicum grade.
Because medical history and examination cannot reliably identify all patients infected with HIV and
other blood-borne pathogens, blood and body fluid precautions should be consistently used for all
patients. This approach, previously recommended by CDC and referred to as “universal blood and body
fluid precautions” or “universal precautions,” should be used in the care of all patients, especially
including those in emergency-care settings in which the risk of blood exposure is increased and the
infection status of the patient is usually unknown. In any case, you are required to wear gloves,
change them as necessary, and wash your hands after every patient to reduce the chances of
transmitting an infectious organism. There are no exceptions to this requirement.
1. All healthcare workers should routinely use appropriate barrier precautions to prevent skin and
mucous-membrane exposure when contact with blood or other body fluids of any patient is
anticipated. Gloves should be worn for touching blood and body fluids, mucous membranes, or
non-intact skin of all patients and for handling items or surfaces soiled with blood or body fluids.
Gloves should be changed after contact with each patient.
2. Hands and other skin surfaces should be washed immediately and thoroughly if contaminated
with blood or other body fluids. Hands should be washed immediately after gloves are removed.
3. All healthcare workers should take precautions to prevent injuries caused by needles, scalpels,
and other sharp instruments or devices during procedures, when cleaning used instruments,
during disposal of used needles, and when handling sharp instruments after procedures. Athletic
training students should seldom if ever come in contact with any of these. However, if the
situation arises, to prevent needle-stick injuries, needles should not be recapped, purposely bent
or broken by hand, removed from disposable syringes, or otherwise manipulated by hand. After
they are used, disposable syringes and needles, scalpel blades, and other sharp items should be
placed in puncture-resistant containers for disposal; the puncture-resistant containers should be
located as close as practical to the use area.
4. Although saliva has not been implicated in HIV transmission, to minimize the need for
emergency mouth-to-mouth resuscitation, mouthpieces, resuscitation bags, or other ventilation
devices should be available for use in areas in which the need for resuscitation is possible.
5. Healthcare workers who have exudative lesions or weeping dermatitis should refrain from all
direct patient care and from handling patientcare equipment until the condition resolves.
6. Pregnant healthcare workers are not known to be at greater risk of contracting HIV infection than
healthcare workers who are not pregnant; however, if a healthcare worker develops HIV
infection during pregnancy, the infant is at risk of infection resulting from perinatal transmission.
Because of this risk, pregnant healthcare workers should be especially familiar with and strictly
adhere to precautions to minimize the risk of HIV transmission.
7. Implementation of universal blood and body-fluid precautions for ALL patients eliminates the
need for use of the isolation category of “Blood and Body Fluid Precautions” previously
recommended by the CDC for patients known or suspected to be infected with blood-borne
pathogens. Isolation, precautions (e. g. , enteric, “AFB”) should be used as necessary if
associated conditions, such as infectious diarrhea or tuberculosis, are diagnosed or suspected.
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**Taken from (with some changes): Recommendation for Prevention of HIV Transmission in
Health Care Settings, U.S. Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service,
Centers for Disease Control, Atlanta, Georgia 30333.
9. CPR Certification
All students participating in a clinical rotation must have current CPR certification. A copy of the
current CPR certification card will be kept in the student file, and the original should be with the student
at each clinical site. Trainings and classes to provide this certification are offered at WLU.
10. Health Insurance
Health insurance is a requirement for all clinical rotations.
If you do not own insurance or are not covered, you must make arrangement with the clinical
coordinator to obtain some form of coverage.
G. Additional Costs
1. Malpractice Insurance
All athletic training program students are required to carry student professional malpractice insurance
through West Liberty University. The university has arranged for a blanket coverage policy. A copy of
this will be with the program director.
2. Student Transportation
You are responsible for your transportation to and from the university and all clinical facilities. Student
car pools are the responsibility of the individual student and not the responsibility of the university.
Arrangements for transportation should be made prior to entering the program. You WILL be driving to
off-campus clinical sites for some rotations.
3. Student Housing
Arrangements for housing will be made by the clinical education coordinator and the university prior to
the school year commencing or during any sort of break to allow you to be on campus with athletic
teams during non-academic times. This is expected as part of your clinical experience and your athletic
training program educaiton.
H. General Information/Activities
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1. Student Employment
Employment during the course of study is the choice of the student and mandates good timemanagement skills. You will not be discouraged from employment, but you will also not be excused
from clinical rotations for work-related issues. You are a student first and foremost, and your clinical
rotation is your education, and requirements should be scheduled around work—not the other way
around. It is up to you to have good communication with your employer and your preceptor about
potential conflicts. These conficts will be dealt with individually by the clinical education coordinator.
2. Athletic Participation
The WLU athletic training program wants to try to provide you with the best collegiate experience
possible. The athletic training program program will not prohibit you from participating on an athletic
team, although it will require some extra planning and commitment if you choose to do so. The athletic
training program will do everything it can to schedule clinical times appropriately. It should be noted
that academics come first, especially in the off-season. But the athletic training program would never
ask you to miss an in-season game or practice to work clinical hours. This scheduling will be dealt with
by the clinical education coordinator on a sport-specific and clinical site-specific basis.
3. Athletic Season
Your education comes before athletics. You can expect to have some conflicts if you choose to do both.
Arrangements will be made to lessen your load during in-season sports. The clinical education
coordinator will try to be as flexible as possible with everyone, but there are no guarantees. Conflicts
need to be communicated to the clinical coordinator immediately to eliminate any confusion. You will
probably miss some practices and games as a result of your off-season schedule with athletics and your
clinical requirements. The key is good communication among you, the coach, and the clinical
coordinator.
4. Student Health Reporting Policy
You must notify the program pirector at West Liberty University and the preceptor at the clinical site of
any and all contracted diseases or health problems that might or could jeopardize an athlete’s and/or
coworker’s health at each clinical site.
If you are involved with a blood and/or body fluid exposure, you must have follow-up testing at your
personal physician’s office, local hospital, or county health department. You are responsible for any
expenses incurred.
You must agree to and sign a release for information to be reported to the program director relating to
exposure follow-up testing and/or treatment for blood and/or body fluid exposure. All of this
information will be treated in strictest confidence and shall be used solely to determine whether you
should be removed from clinical rotation to protect the employees and/or athletes of the clinical site.
5. Professional Association Membership
You are required to join the National Athletic Trainers’ Association as a student member during your
time as an ATS at WLU. You may obtain an application online at www.nata.org. Questions regarding
these organizations should be addressed to the program director.
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I. Disciplinary Procedures
With the exception of the circumstances described in Section I1, the following process will be used for
disciplinary matters. The purpose of this process is to correct your behaviors so that you can successfully
complete the program.
The following list contains examples of inappropriate behaviors that may result in disciplinary procedures:
1. Cheating or plagiarism
2. Dress code violations
3. Excessive tardiness
4. Failure to report an absence
5. Insubordination
6. Failure to maintain academic or clinical proficiency
7. Under the influence of alcohol or drugs in an academic setting
8. Abusive language
9. Performing the duties of an athletic trainer without the direct supervision of a preceptor
10. Falsifying clinical attendance records
11. Failure to maintain proper hygiene
1. First Offense:
Student is given an oral reprimand and expected to make immediate changes. A written account is filed
in the student’s record.
2. Second Offense:
Written documentation of the offense is given to the student. The student will be deferred to university
administration for reprimand and university policy will ensue. Any missed time must be made up. A
written report is placed in the student’s permanent file. The student may be placed on probation within
the athletic training program at the discretion of the program director.
3. Third Offense:
Written documentation of the offense is given to the student. The student is then permanently dismissed
from the program, and a written report is placed in the student’s permanent file. The student situation
will be handled at the university level, and the student will no longer be permitted to be a part of the
athletic training program.
a. Permanent Dismissal from a Clinical Site
You may be permanently dismissed from a clinical site for unsafe clinical practice any time during
the semester. In such cases a grade of “F” will be given for the course in which the unsafe practice
occurred, and you will be permanently dismissed from the program.
Reasons for unsafe clinical practice include, but are not limited to, the following:
1.
Failure to attain the required level of cognitive or motor skills
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2.
Inadequate preparation
3.
Inaccurate documentation
4.
The inability to perform motor skills safely
5.
Violation of institutional or professional codes of conduct
6.
Unethical/Unprofessional behavior
7.
Under the influence of drugs or alcohol
8.
Inability to establish rapport with patients or staff
9.
Lack of integrity, initiative, interest, or dependability
You will be afforded due process according to West Liberty University policy in cases of dismissal
for unsafe practice. If you choose to appeal the decision, the Clinical Coordinator will keep you out of
the clinical areas until the appeal process is completed. If the results of the appeal allow you to
remain in the course, you will be given the opportunity to make up the clinical time.
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J. NATA Code of Ethics
PREAMBLE
The National Athletic Trainers’ Association Code of Ethics states the principles of ethical behavior that should
be followed in the practice of athletic training. It is intended to establish and maintain high standards and
professionalism for the athletic training profession. The principles do not cover every situation encountered by
the practicing athletic trainer, but are representative of the spirit with which athletic trainers should make
decisions. The principles are written generally; the circumstances of a situation will determine the interpretation
and application of a given principle and of the Code as a whole. When a conflict exists between the Code and
the law, the law prevails.
PRINCIPLE 1:
Members shall respect the rights, welfare and dignity of all.
1.1 Members shall not discriminate against any legally protected class.
1.2 Members shall be committed to providing competent care.
1.3 Members shall preserve the confidentiality of privileged information and shall not release such information
to a third party not involved in the patient’s care without a release unless required by law.
PRINCIPLE 2:
Members shall comply with the laws and regulations governing the practice of athletic training.
2.1 Members shall comply with applicable local, state, and federal laws and institutional guidelines.
2.2 Members shall be familiar with and abide by all National Athletic Trainers’ Association standards, rules and
regulations.
2.3 Members shall report illegal or unethical practices related to athletic training to the appropriate person or
authority.
2.4 Members shall avoid substance abuse and, when necessary, seek rehabilitation for chemical dependency.
PRINCIPLE 3:
Members shall maintain and promote high standards in their provision of services.
3.1 Members shall not misrepresent, either directly or indirectly, their skills, training, professional credentials,
identity, or services.
3.2 Members shall provide only those services for which they are qualified through education or experience and
which are allowed by their practice acts and other pertinent regulation.
3.3 Members shall provide services, make referrals, and seek compensation only for those services that are
necessary.
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3.4 Members shall recognize the need for continuing education and participate in educational activities that
enhance their skills and knowledge.
3.5 Members shall educate those whom they supervise in the practice of athletic training about the Code of
Ethics and stress the importance of adherence.
3.6 Members who are researchers or educators should maintain and promote ethical conduct in research and
educational activities.
PRINCIPLE 4:
Members shall not engage in conduct that could be construed as a conflict of interest or that reflects negatively
on the profession.
4.1 Members should conduct themselves personally and professionally in a manner that does not compromise
their professional responsibilities or the practice of athletic training.
4.2 National Athletic Trainers’ Association current or past volunteer leaders shall not use the NATA logo in the
endorsement of products or services or exploit their affiliation with the NATA in a manner that reflects badly
upon the profession.
4.3 Members shall not place financial gain above the patient‘s welfare and shall not participate in any
arrangement that exploits the patient.
4.4 Members shall not, through direct or indirect means, use information obtained in the course of the practice
of athletic training to try to influence the score or outcome of an athletic event, or attempt to induce financial
gain through gambling.
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K. STUDENT POLICIES AGREEMENT
(To the student: After carefully reading this page, print and complete the required information. Sign it
and return it to the clinical coordinator or program director.)
I, the undersigned, have read, received an explanation of, and understand the guidelines contained in this
handbook.
I also understand that I must comply with and follow these guidelines and policies during the period of my
enrollment as an Athletic Training Program student at West Liberty University.
In accordance with West Liberty University’s clinical affiliation agreement, I grant permission for West Liberty
University’s athletic training program faculty to discuss both my academic standing and clinical progression
with any or all of the program’s clinical affiliates.
DATE
SIGNATURE
PRINTED NAME
I, the undersigned, give West Liberty University my permission to release my medical records to clinical sites
as necessary.
DATE
SIGNATURE
SOCIAL SECURITY #
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